House Concurrent Resolution No. by Representative Butler requests the Louisiana Department of Health to conduct a comprehensive study, known as the "Derek's Promise Study," to identify gaps in acute healthcare access for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The resolution highlights that these individuals often face complex medical conditions that require acute care services, yet the existing Medicaid and facility-based systems are primarily designed for long-term support and do not adequately address acute medical needs. This results in unnecessary hospitalizations, delayed discharges, and service disruptions, particularly affecting those in home- and community-based waiver programs, group homes, and intermediate care facilities.

The resolution outlines specific areas for the study, including barriers within the Medicaid system, hospital utilization trends, and the development of a coordinated acute care pathway model. It also calls for policy and funding recommendations to improve access to care, particularly in rural and underserved areas, and emphasizes the importance of collaboration with various stakeholders, including healthcare providers and advocacy organizations. The Louisiana Department of Health is required to submit a written report of its findings and recommendations by February 1, 2027.